In a momentous celebration of Barbie’s 65th anniversary, The Design Museum in London is set to host a landmark exhibition that delves into the iconic doll’s design evolution. This comprehensive showcase promises to be a fascinating journey through the Barbie universe, featuring over 250 remarkable objects highlighting the doll’s transformation over the decades.
From July 5, 2024, to early 2025, visitors will have the opportunity to explore Barbie’s design story. For generations, Barbie has been a cultural icon and a symbol of creativity, self-expression, and imagination. The exhibition will showcase a wide range of objects, including rare and unique dolls, fashion designs, architectural structures, furniture, and vehicles, demonstrating the meticulous work of talented designers over the past 65 years.
The exhibition promises to be a nostalgic and inspiring experience, highlighting Barbie’s evolution in design, from the first edition of ‘Number 1 Barbie’ to the groundbreaking Day to Night Barbie and the record-breaking Totally Hair Barbie. The showcase will also feature the first diverse dolls to bear the Barbie name, reflecting today’s multicultural society, including the first Barbie with Down syndrome, the first to use a wheelchair, and the first with a curvy body shape.
In addition to Barbie herself, the exhibition will showcase her friends and family, including Midge, Christie, Teresa, and Skipper. It will also feature a dedicated section for Ken, presenting six decades of his evolution since his introduction in 1961. The exhibition will also feature iconic Dreamhouses, vehicles, and furniture, including the first-ever Barbie Dreamhouse™ from 1962, illustrating how Barbie’s universe has evolved to reflect contemporary tastes and trends in design.
According to Mattel’s senior vice president, Kim Culmone, Barbie continues to be an international icon, sparking global conversation, creativity, and self-expression. The exhibition offers fans an exclusive, behind-the-scenes look at Mattel’s design processes and the evolution of Barbie’s looks with changing culture.
Don’t miss out on this opportunity to explore the design legacy of a cultural icon. Tickets are now available on the Design Museum’s website, and the exhibition will run until early 2025. Get ready to be inspired by Barbie’s expansive and exciting world!
